9.03.2012

Molly Barker, founder of the national nonprofit organization, Girls on the Run, will be delivering her encouraging message at Illinois College on Monday, September 10, at 11 a.m. in Rammelkamp Chapel.

In a presentation called “Be the Change,” Barker’s message will show that the only limitations to the achievement of self-worth, contentment and joy are those we place on ourselves. “We must be the change for the change we wish to occur,” she says.

Barker’s story will encourage college students and others to celebrate their gifts, honor their voices and activate their power in the awaiting world and give women and girls the tools to break free from the negative, limiting talk, both internally and externally, and to joyfully and boldly pursue their dreams.

At a self-described low point in her life, Barker experienced an epiphany during a sunset run in 1993. That evening run gave her an insight into her own potential and helped shape the concept of Girls on the Run. Three years later, Barker launched the company to educate and prepare girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. Her innovative program uses running to inspire and motivate eight- to 12-year old girls, encourage lifelong health and fitness, and build confidence through accomplishment. At the conclusion of the program, the girls and their running buddies complete a 5k running event. A four-time Hawaii Ironman triathlete, Barker’s efforts have positively affected the lives of tens of thousands of girls in 200 cities across North America and have received recognition in major magazines and on network news programs.

Founded in 1829, Illinois College is a residential liberal arts college fostering academic excellence rooted in opportunities for experiential learning while preparing students for lifelong success. The college is located in Jacksonville, Ill. With an enrollment of about 1,000 students, the college offers over 50 undergraduate programs and a Master of Arts in Education degree program. In 1932 the society of Phi Beta Kappa established a chapter at Illinois College, and it remains one of only 11 in the state.

Illinois College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.